The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has appointed renowned Togolese physician and public health expert, Professor Vincent Palokinam Pitché, as the new Director-General of the West African Health Organisation (WAHO), signaling a renewed drive to strengthen regional health cooperation and build more resilient healthcare systems across West Africa.
Professor Pitché succeeds Dr. Melchior Aïssi of Benin, who completed his tenure as head of the ECOWAS specialised health institution.
His appointment comes at a critical period for the sub-region, as member states intensify efforts to strengthen health systems in the aftermath of recent epidemics while confronting emerging infectious diseases, climate-related health risks and the growing demand for accessible, quality healthcare.
A professor of dermatology and infectious diseases at the University of Lomé, Professor Pitché brings decades of experience in clinical medicine, public health and health policy to the regional organisation.
Before his appointment, he served as Permanent Secretary of Togo’s National Council for the Fight Against HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections, where he oversaw programmes aimed at reducing new HIV infections and expanding access to treatment and prevention services.
As Director-General, he is expected to lead initiatives to deepen health collaboration among ECOWAS member states, enhance regional preparedness for disease outbreaks, strengthen disease surveillance systems and promote equitable access to healthcare across the sub-region.
His mandate also includes advancing local production of medicines and vaccines, reinforcing regional health security and supporting the implementation of universal health coverage to improve health outcomes for millions of West Africans.
Professor Pitché assumes office at a time of institutional reforms within ECOWAS following recent political developments that have reshaped regional cooperation, with the organisation seeking to reposition itself to address evolving health and development challenges more effectively.
Health experts say his extensive experience in infectious disease management and public health administration will strengthen cross-border responses to health emergencies while fostering closer collaboration among governments, development partners and research institutions.
WAHO, the ECOWAS agency responsible for coordinating regional health policies and programmes, plays a pivotal role in supporting member states to improve healthcare delivery, combat communicable and non-communicable diseases and bolster emergency preparedness.
Observers believe Professor Pitché’s appointment underscores ECOWAS’ commitment to building resilient health systems capable of safeguarding the health of more than 400 million people across the West African sub-region, with a focus on translating regional health commitments into tangible improvements in healthcare delivery.
